Your backyard should be a relaxing and tranquil place to come home to. A lot of the time when you buy your home, the backyard doesn’t measure up to what you’d like it to be. Many people have a vision of what their dream backyard would look like but aren’t sure of how to make it happen. Instead of paying someone else to bring your vision to life, make it happen your self. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Map It Out
Before getting your hands dirty, make a plan for you want your backyard to look like. Although there are some features you desperately want, like a fountain or coy pond, but the size or scope of your backyard may not allow it. Planning out this project will also help save time and money. It will allow you to see areas you’ll be able to handle yourself and the bigger jobs you might want to hire someone for. When planning the project, ask yourself what areas need the most attention, if anything needs to be repaired, or what plantings should be removed to fit your design.
Landscaping vs. Designing
While renovating your backyard, it’s important to know the difference between landscaping and design. Some projects will involve more landscaping than design and vice versa. Landscaping involves planting new gardens, adding in a pond, or pathing a walkway. It’s important to first start with landscaping the backyard before designing it. When adding in new gardens, you can keep it simple by adding a couple flower beds or make it more urban by adding a vegetable garden. Pathways can either be long sidewalks or a few stepping stones along the lawn. Landscaping creates the base of your oasis.
Designing your backyard involves adding in decks, patios, fences, or furnishings. This will help define your space and give it personality. You can keep it modern, rustic, or classic. Whether you’d like these designs to be purchased or take the opportunity for a do-it-yourself project, it will make your backyard look just as you envisioned it. Decks and furnishings will also often serve as the “wow” factor in your back yard. In your design, you’ll want to make sure to have a focal point in your backyard. This can either be an elegant fountain, a communal gathering area, or a firepit. It’s important to make it your own and have it fit with the rest of the space.
Compliment Your Home
When renovating your backyard, make sure it reflects on your home. Factor in the structure of your home and the exterior and go from there. Make sure walkways and new fences won’t clash with the brick or wood of your home. Although you may have always dreamed of having a marble fountain in your backyard, it won’t look as nice if it doesn’t match your home. The design should complement your home and act as an extension of its aesthetics.
